Man accused of stealing $1.3 million from victims of Colorado wildfire

A contractor has been arrested in Boulder County, charged with theft of more than one million dollars thanks to an accusation made by four property owners who were victims of the Marshall Fire. The Marshall Fire is considered the most destructive wildfire in Colorado history, destroying more than 1,000 homes over the course of two especially active days starting on the night of December 30, 2021.

The contractor, identified as Leona Scott, 63 and of Aurora, allegedly stole over $1.3 million from the four property owners in unfinished work. The property owners allege that he entered into separate contracts with each of the four families and took their money, but did not use the money as intended. The situation is further complicated by Scott allegedly not having a proper license to construct homes in Boulder County.

"It is particularly egregious when someone steals money from victims of a disaster," said Boulder County Sheriff Curtis Johnson, "I’m glad we were able to gather enough evidence to obtain an arrest warrant and that he is now in custody."

Scott was arrested and booked on June 27 on the charge of theft over one million dollars, which is a class two felony. This charge is punishable by eight to 24 years in prison and up to $1,000,000 in fines, according to the Colorado Legal Defense Group. Restitution to victims may also be a penalty.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.